It is very difficult to justify anything felt in the face of such an emotive memorial. If we don't remember them, then they are expendable, unwanted, uncared for, forgotten. If they are remembered, then it is noted with cynicism, and a feeling of resentment and inner fury that it takes such a selfless act of sacrifice to get anyone to do anything at all. In fact, all of our men and women are aware of the risks, and I for one get confused with the comments that sometimes appear on other threads, of almost childish glee, that more are coming out of the services.
So what is the answer, only join and fight the conflicts you want to, or join and fight the wars you are sent to, or protest at everthing, join and leave in a hurry or join, serve like a hero despite the powers that be, defend this country and if the very worst happend be remembered by just such a memorial.
Until this planet learns to live in peace - something that will never happen - this sort of situation will continue and the same choices have to be continually made.
So how do I feel - immensly proud of the man who gave all in order to work with colleagues he respected and honoured, to be one of them and die with them. I don't care about politicians or people with self opinionated views of what is right and wrong. All I care about is that I lost him- forever - and I will never ever see him again and if his name is carved in stone, it is also carved in my heart and nothing and no-one can eradicate it from either.
So if there is room for more names on this memorial then that can be construed either way, a determination to revere those who will continue to give the ultimate or hedging your bets and making sure no gets left out therefore making sure enough room is there.
I know which way I will prefer to look at it because I look at all the uniforms and all I see are men and women better, and braver and more courgeous than me, willing to go out do a job of work against all odds.
God Bless you all. I hope you never end up on that Memorial but I am so unbelievably proud that the man I love so much is there, even though that means he will never again be with me.